White not likely to fill Titus' spot

Now that Paradise Town Councilman Tim Titus has announced his resignation, speculation has run rampant about what the council will do next. The council has the option of leaving the seat vacant until the November election, appointing someone to the spot or holding a special election.

"There's no way I'd vote for a special election," said councilman Steve "Woody" Culleton, who added that he was shocked when he heard the news about Titus' departure. "We'll discuss it on Tuesday night, talk it over and see what the council says."

Titus announced his decision on Monday and by Tuesday morning Culleton was getting calls from people who wanted the spot.

"My colleagues have, too," he said, noting he had a few people in mind, though he wouldn't elaborate on whom. Though former councilman Alan White's name has been bandied about, Culleton said White had not contacted him.

"This is the first I've heard of it. It's something to consider, but I don't know without talking to Alan," Culleton said.

White left his post 2012, choosing not to run for reelection. He said it is unfortunate that Titus is leaving the spot, but knows Titus has to take the opportunity given to him.

As far as filling in for Titus, White didn't think it was likely.

"If I was interested in the appointment, I would've run for office," he said, adding that he sees the logic in talking to him about filling the spot. "There would be no or very little ramp up," he said.

But White said there are other qualified candidates available. Additionally, he accepted Fifth District Butte County Supervisor Doug Teeter's appointment to the planning commission, which creates a conflict of interest.

"I would have to resign from (the commission)," he said.

Either way, White hopes the council will fill the spot for the remainder of the year.

"I think someone should be appointed," he said. "I don't think they should run out rest of term without a council member. I don't think they should spend the money on a special election. But am I throwing my hat in the ring? No."

He said the first place he would look for an appointment is the town planning commission, which consists of Jody Jones, Dan Wentland, James Clarkson, Stephanie Neumann and Michael Zuccolillo. White said he might reconsider if the council cannot find someone qualified and non-controversial.

"But there's gotta be someone," he said.

Culleton said he wants to know any possible appointee is willing and qualified.

"What I look at is are they qualified to be there? Do they have enough understanding of local government and the community to be productive in the time they are there?" he said.

Ultimately, it is up to the council, he said.

"We're going to talk about it Tuesday and make a decision on what we want to do," Culleton said.

The council meeting is on Jan. 14 at 6 p.m. in the Town Hall chambers located at 5555 Skyway.